When football season hits Athens, GA, the town comes alive. With thousands of fans flooding into town to cheer on the Georgia Bulldogs (Go Dawgs!), local homes and businesses transform into hubs of celebration. While the energy is unmatched, so is the mess. Between tailgates, backyard watch parties, and rented game-day properties, managing the surplus of garbage becomes a real challenge.
Here’s how residents and hosts can effectively dispose of waste in Athens-Clarke County during football season while staying clean, compliant, and eco-conscious.
1. Anticipate the Surge in Trash
First things first: football weekends generate a lot more waste than usual. This includes food packaging, beverage containers, paper goods, and leftover party supplies. Whether you’re hosting a one-time tailgate or running a short-term rental (like an Airbnb or VRBO), planning for increased garbage is key.
Tip: Track your usual trash output and increase your bin capacity or pickup frequency by 2–3x during game weekends.
2. Know Your Local Waste Pickup Schedule
Athens-Clarke County has specific rules and pickup days for garbage, recycling, and yard waste. It’s crucial to:
- Review the Athens-Clarke County Solid Waste Department schedule
- Take note of holiday or game day schedule changes
- Avoid overflowing bins or putting out trash on the wrong day, which can lead to fines
If you’re in downtown or high-traffic neighborhoods, pickup may be earlier or more frequent during game weekends. Stay updated via the ACC Solid Waste website.
3. Use Extra Trash Bins or Dumpsters
If you expect large crowds, your standard residential garbage bin may not cut it. Consider renting:
- Extra rolling bins from local waste services
- Temporary dumpsters (ideal for large-scale events or weekend rentals)
Many local providers offer short-term waste solutions specifically geared for football weekends. Make sure the bins are placed where they’re accessible but not obstructive to traffic or neighbors.
4. Separate Recycling Properly
Game day garbage is notorious for being a mix of recyclables and trash. When it comes to Solo cups, beer cans, water bottles, and pizza boxes, some are recyclable, some are not.
What to recycle in Athens:
- Aluminum cans
- Clean plastic bottles (types #1 and #2)
- Paper and cardboard (no grease stains)
- Glass bottles (in some areas)
Avoid recycling: greasy pizza boxes, plastic utensils, or solo cups (unless labeled as recyclable).
Label bins clearly for guests and renters. “TRASH” and “RECYCLING” signs can go a long way in avoiding contamination and recycling responsibly in Athens.
5. Encourage Responsible Hosting
If you’re hosting or renting out your home during a UGA game weekend, make trash management part of your check-in checklist or party planning. You can:
- Leave extra trash bags under the sink
- Provide a printed waste and recycling guide
- Ask guests to tie up bags and place them in bins or designated dumpster areas
- Let renters know where and when to place bins for pickup
Preventative steps like these reduce overflow and discourage littering in the neighborhood.
6. Avoid Littering and Illegal Dumping
Overflowing bins can lead to trash blowing into yards or streets. Even worse, some partygoers or renters may dump bags in public bins or neighboring properties—an action that can lead to fines or police reports.
Avoid issues by:
- Keeping all trash bagged and contained
- Locking bins if needed
- Reporting illegal dumping to ACC Solid Waste at 706-613-3501
7. Partner with Local Waste Services
There are several Athens-based waste companies that offer game day pickup services, extra bin rentals, and even clean-up crews for after parties or events, consider partnering with:
- Roll-off dumpster providers
- Local junk removal teams
- Event cleanup services
This is especially helpful for property managers or those hosting recurring gatherings.
Call AAA Sanitation to See How we Can Help with your Game Day Garbage
Football season in Athens is a time of excitement, pride, and community. It also brings logistical challenges, especially when it comes to managing garbage. By planning ahead, using proper containers, and following local guidelines, you can keep your home or rental clean, your neighbors happy, and your game day stress-free.
Because nothing kills the Bulldog spirit like a trash pile in the driveway.
Supporting local trash pickup in Clarke County is about more than just putting the bins out on trash collection day. By understanding how local trash pickup works, engaging in recycling, reducing waste, and taking part in community cleanups, residents can make a big difference in the future of their neighborhoods. By doing so, they contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable Clarke County. Be sure to contact AAA Sanitation & Garbage Removal for your garbage collection services today!
AAA Sanitation & Garbage Removal
79 Business Dr Ste A
Hull, GA 30646
(706) 543-7788
https://aaasanitationco.com/
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